Despite the emphasis on professionalization of academic advising in global higher education, few scholars have focused on professionalization in a diverse cultural context. This article provides an exploration into the educational history and practices that have led to increasing calls for professionalization of academic advising in Chinese colleges and universities. Specifically, Chinese educational culture differs from Western culture in that it prioritizes social values and government recognition. Scholars can expand their professionalization theory framework through concluding government recognition. Recognizing and appreciating this broad cross-cultural perspective will help practitioners understand Chinese students better and advise them appropriately. It can also help future scholars investigating professionalization on an international or cross-cultural level.